BROWNSBURG, Ind. — On Christmas night, while many kitchens sat quiet, Rockstar Pizza was packed with customers lining up nonstop from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., turning the holiday into the restaurant’s busiest shift of the year.
A Christmas Tradition That Puts Workers First
For more than a few hours each Christmas, the Brownsburg pizza shop transforms into a high-energy operation with one clear purpose: every dollar earned goes directly to the employees working that shift. The owners began the tradition years ago, deciding that all Christmas Day sales would be split evenly among staff who volunteer to work.
Employee Debi Herrel, who has worked five Christmas shifts at the restaurant, said the night can be intense but deeply rewarding.
“It gets very overwhelming. Everybody just pulls together,” Herrel said. “Everybody’s in a great mood. It’s just nice to spend time together.”
Herrel explained that the extra income makes a meaningful difference for her family, especially during the holiday season when expenses are higher.
Long Lines and Hundreds of Pizzas in Just Hours
During the four-hour Christmas window, the kitchen typically produces at least 200 pizzas, with orders coming in continuously. This year, demand grew so fast that the restaurant was forced to temporarily pause orders mid-shift to keep up.
Despite the pressure, employees said the atmosphere stays positive, driven by teamwork and the knowledge that the night’s earnings will help with personal needs ranging from family expenses to education.
Helping Pay for College and Holiday Expenses
Employee Mackenzie Shobe, working her third Christmas shift, said the money she earned will go toward covering costs for her upcoming college semester.
“I was kind of thinking I was in a dream,” Shobe said. “There’s no way I can make this much money and just work like I normally do.”
Shobe added that the opportunity is especially meaningful during the holidays, when finances can be tight for many people.
“I’m just really grateful they’ve given us this opportunity to come in as employees and work and get some money,” she said.
Customers Make It a Holiday Tradition Too
The Christmas rush is fueled not only by hungry families but by loyal customers who return year after year to support the staff. Chelsea Walls, a regular customer, said her family has ordered from Rockstar Pizza every Christmas for the past four years.
“The owners are super involved in the community, and we think that’s great,” Walls said. “We always try to give back to the employees, and I don’t have to cook, so it’s a win-win.”
Walls said she placed her order online the night before Christmas, knowing how busy the restaurant becomes.
A Small Business Impacting the Community
For many customers, the tradition goes beyond convenience. Walls said the restaurant’s approach reflects how small businesses can strengthen their communities.
“It shows that small businesses really have an impact,” she said. “If they show up for the community, the community always gives back.”
A Holiday Built on Gratitude
As the ovens stayed hot and orders stacked up, employees and customers alike described the night as a shared celebration of generosity. For those working behind the counter, the long lines and busy kitchen come with the satisfaction of knowing their effort directly supports themselves and their coworkers.
The Christmas night rush at Brownsburg has become more than a sales event—it’s a reminder that holiday spirit can take many forms, including sharing success with the people who help make it possible.
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